Galchenyuk excited for opportunity to play center with Coyotes

A new opportunity stands before Alex Galchenyuk.

Traded to the Arizona Coyotes late Friday, the former Montreal Canadiens forward is not only headed to a new home, but he'll also be getting a chance to play his preferred position: lining up in the middle of the ice.

After shifting from center to wing during his time with the Canadiens, the former third overall pick will have a clean slate at center with his new club.

"I don't think we'd make this trade if we didn't think he had the ability to play center," Coyotes general manager John Chayka said following the trade.

Music to Galchenyuk's ears, to be sure, as prior to his exit from Montreal, he had discussions about a move back to the middle, but it never materialized, Galchenyuk indicated to Craig Morgan of Arizona Sports.

He'll get that opportunity in the desert, a chance he last had in Montreal at the start of the 2016-17 campaign. For Galchenyuk's part, there is no shortage of enthusiasm.

"That's what I want. I'm excited about it," Galchenyuk added, according to Arpon Basu of The Athletic.

Galchenyuk appeared in all 82 games last season, netting 19 goals and 32 assists.